Esterman Visual Field Test

Visual Field Requirements for the DVLA

The standard set by the DVLA for ordinary (Group 1) drivers is defined as:-

“a field of at least 120° on the horizontal measured using the Goldmann III4e setting or the equivalent. In addition, there should be no significant defect in the binocular field which encroaches within 20° of fixation either above or below the horizontal meridian”

The DVLA may require you to take a visual field test if you have disclosed an eye condition that affects the quality of your vision. This would ordinarily involve an eye examination with and without your current spectacle prescription as well as the visual fields test at an optician of the DVLA’s choosing.

The Esterman Visual Field Test is carried out on both eyes together (binocularly) and wearing any glasses that you normally wear when driving. It is carried out on a visual field analyser, a computerised machine where you have to responding to small, flashing lights by pressing a button whilst looking straight ahead. The test should take around half an hour to complete.

Our optometrist at Eyediology Opticians can carry out the test and provide with you with the documentation required by the DVLA.

This appointment to check the health of the surface of your eyes and your contact lens prescription.

Please note, your eye examination MUST be in date (within the last two years) when you come for an aftercare appointment.

This is usually a short appointment, a routine check on your contact lenses. If you need a full eye examination for a more comprehensive health check of your eyes and your spectacles prescription, please book a combined appointment.

The fee for this appointment is £35, there is no charge if you are a member or you join our ‘Eye Plan Contacts’ membership scheme.

The appointment will last up to 30 minutes (more time will be needed if you wish to choose new glasses).

The appointment is free of charge if you are eligible to receive free NHS Sight tests:-

• aged 60 or over • registered blind or partially sighted • diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma • aged 40 or over and have a close relative (parent or sibling) with a history of glaucoma • at risk of glaucoma (and your ophthalmologist has confirmed this) • aged under 16, or under 19 and in full-time education • eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher • receiving low-income benefits